My Brother, Kevin Speaks ...

My family and I have been residing in London for the past 9 years now, and during that time my wife and I have become avid readers of the various Bahamian newspaper and political websites. These sites are a godsend when it comes to keeping abreast of current events when you’re so far away from home (I hope this latter comment is taken as a strong hint by the current editors and publishers of the few remaining Bahamian news and current event publications that have yet to embrace the internet). It is very seldom that a Sunday evening passes without my wife or me visiting the Bahamasuncensored.com website to keep abreast of what’s going on back home. As a result I would classify both my wife and myself as regular readers of the contents of your website.

I am sometimes astounded by the things that remind me how much I miss being away from the Bahamas. Of course there are the obvious things like the cold weather, the dark and dreary winter days and the way the English speak. But then there are subtle things as well. For example, a few days ago I found myself longing for home because I had an urge for some chicken souse with a slice or two of johnny cake on the side.

There I was roaming the streets of central London during my lunch break, wishing that I could find a restaurant that served Bahamian food (no luck of course). As usual this made me think of all the other things, as well as all the friends and family I missed being so far away from home. It also made me recall a previous article that was posted on this site a long while ago (before the penultimate elections), where the author was questioning whether it was appropriate for the then (and current) prime minister, Mr Ingraham, to either use his hands and/or suck the bones whilst eating some chicken souse at a public function he was attending.

I also recall a few of your more recent articles where you have commented on Mr Ingraham’s behaviour during parliamentary debates. I believe you described his behaviour as being “…boorish.”

I am originally from West End, in Grand Bahama. My now deceased father was once a PLP member of parliament, and like the majority of people in that community I also consider myself to be a PLP at heart. Having said that, I hope that I am not in a majority of one when I say that I believe that we (the PLP party) do ourselves no favour when we try to focus the attention of the public on the perceived shortcomings of Mr Ingraham and his colleagues. As individuals I am certain that there is more to be desired from our (PLP) politicians as well; no one is perfect. However, rather than drawing attention to individual imperfections our politicians should be concerned with drawing attention to the imperfections that seem to be pulling our society apart. Our politicians must be seen to rise above the constant bickering and name calling that seems to have become the status quo in the houses of parliament. They must remain focused on drawing attention to, and seeking solutions for, some of the more pressing concerns of the Bahamian public; issues such as increasing crime and unemployment rates, the medium to long-term implications associated with the increasing numbers of young adults who finish high school each year without acquiring basic math and english skills, the increasing cost of home ownership, etc.

Our politicians should be using every opportunity available to them to make the public MORE aware of the PLP’s plans for tackling some of these issues. Rather than moaning about the prime minister’s behaviour, or that of some of his colleagues, they should remind their parliamentary colleagues that they are all there to carry out the business of the Bahamian people. The PLP party could also hold regular public forums where these issues are discussed with the general public and experts. Our politicians should never allow themselves to be drawn into a shouting match with Mr Ingraham and his colleagues – that is not what we elected them for.

My wife and I left the Bahamas because our first child was born with disabilities that could not be treated at home, and for which we could not afford the cost of medical treatment in America. Even though we would never wish our fate on anyone else, we consider ourselves fortunate. This is because there was an option available to us that allows our daughter to receive the medical care and special education support she requires. This is not the case for many other Bahamian parents, and other Bahamians with loved ones requiring specialist medical care. Some of these Bahamians have to resort to selling tickets for plates of food, or simply begging for financial assistance to defray the cost of their medical expenses. This should not be happening in the Bahamas in 2007, but we all know of someone forced into this position.

There are so many Bahamians today who are terrified of becoming the next victim of robbery, or rape or murder. There are too many of our younger Bahamians becoming victims of crime and poor judgement. Too many of us have lost hope in the younger generation. We stand on the sidelines and watch as so many young Bahamians fall victim to the evils of materialism and succumb to the belief that it is their divine right to obtain a material possession by any means necessary, with the exceptions being honesty and hard work.

It seems that most days when I log onto one of the Bahamian newspaper websites there is usually some headline about another robbery, or incest or murder. This seems to have become such a common event that if I decide to visit one of these websites whilst I’m at work, I will minimise the webpage as small as possible beforehand, so none of my colleagues will be able to see any of these appalling headlines. I am thousands of miles away from home, but still very ashamed and scared about what seems to be happening at home.

I really believe that the PLP party has an opportunity to prove to the Bahamian public that they should be given another opportunity to govern. There are too many Bahamians, both home and abroad, who are tired of the political bickering. We are all hoping that our leaders can develop and implement viable solutions to some of the problems in our country. Now if only someone can help me figure out how I can arrange for my mom to send me some chicken souse or boiled fish by post!

Kevin Hall

Giving Thanks

It seems that heart-breaking, sorrowful and dreadful events are given a certain preeminence in our lives, whether in the media or our memory banks. The tenor of our Country for example skews more toward the feelings associated with all the present negatives of our communities – violence and violent crime, political polarization and disharmony, the delinquency of so many of our youth, and not to mention, the uncertainty of the performance of an economy that to date has gone un-mastered and with respect to Bahamians, generally un-owned. And so we find ourselves overwhelmed by the accompanying statistics, 70 or so murders, a high percentage of AIDS infection, an overall failing grade in our schools, leaders with conflicting solutions, and the list goes on and on.

It is this preoccupation with our shortcomings, disappointments, differences, and fears, I believe that has stifled us in our creative and innovative expressions as a people. There is no doubt that Bahamians are a peculiar people, full of amazing potential, and survivors by design. Wherever we seriously apply our talents, we succeed, on the world stage. Yet while we have exhibited this to some degree in the Arts and in Sports, we haven’t really given our World any major discoveries, inventions or scientific and technological advances. I recall that a Bahamian woman once designed a shoe that can be worn several ways but there are no inventions to date from this Country, equivalent to the significance of the light bulb or the airplane, and there certainly is no Space program that will eventually lead to a conch-shell from our waters, landing on the moon.

A major part of the challenge of our going from ordinary to extraordinary, from Third World to First World rests in our ability to come alive, to unlock our very natural creative wizardry, and redirect the explosive energies of our youth. There is so much emphasis on the amenities, privileges, and systemic efficiencies that make for a First World quality of life, and these all have their places. However, none rivals the importance of the development of our human capital, without which, those tangibles cannot be sustained or advanced.

Ours is a Country largely of imitation and imports. From our language and educational curriculum, to our electronics and automobiles, to our judicial and parliamentary procedures, to the clothes we wear and the things that entertain us most, we are not our own. We have yet to find the will and formula to produce enough from our land and waters to feed ourselves. So the question begs, “Who are we, where are we, and where do we go from here?”

The starting point to adopting solutions, and reversing these unfortunate truths, is a shift in perspective and attitude. Gratitude, believe it or not, carries much of the secrets to inspiring a people to excel. When we become grateful for the journey thus far, proud of being Bahamian, whatever that turns out to be, and mindful of the large and small blessings so prevalent among us in our daily lives, then and only then will we start to become the kind of citizens, World citizens we are destined to be. Because the ultimate truth is that, notwithstanding all that is lacking and must be achieved, we are a “glass” more full than empty.

We are alive, over three hundred thousand strong. Our young are more in numbers, productive than the few destructive. We have the right to speak our minds, vote, and worship God without the fear of incarceration, torture or death. And history serves as a testament that we have the wherewithal to manipulate our economy sufficiently to always ensure the viability of the next generation. Why? Because the one thing sufficiently innovative about us, and not imported or mimicked, is our hallowed and indomitable spirit. Challenge us to rise and we will!

This Thanksgiving season therefore, I just want to pause and thank our God for being Bahamian. How about you?

Power to the People, Again

Whatever your politics, we must realize that there are two major hurdles threatening the quality of life to be enjoyed by our next generation. The more obvious, that of violence, and particularly violent crime refuses to go unnoticed. Its manifestations stare us all in the face daily, rape, murder, assault, even the inability of our political leaders to get along etc. The second is more illusive, that of positioning the ordinary majority to play a greater role in our economic destiny, as our Country captures the attention of key world players now because of our very unique geographical make up. And though seemingly non-connected, the two depend upon each other because aside from being a Country made up of 700 Islands and over 2000 cays, sitting right next to the United States and serving as the gateway to the Caribbean, historically investors have also been attracted to our peaceful nature and Centuries old commitment to democracy.

To say that the wider World does not have much confidence in Black leadership is inflammatory but on an unspoken and therefore, unproven level, it is true. Aided by historical evidence, many expect us to live in a constant state of confusion and irresponsibility, with our leaders distracted by a very natural propensity to “turn on in each other” and or to “be bought.” You will find that very few people are shocked anymore to read about illegality, AIDS, poverty, corruption or political instability when it comes to Black people, whether in Africa, the Caribbean or “African American” communities.

We in The Bahamas, have our share of problems with respect to these stereotypical behaviors but thankfully, at the moment we can still point to a few, the patriotic, the honest, on both sides of the political divide who have not allowed us to slip totally into that dismal abyss. However, to ensure the kind of success as a Nation, as a people, which we are potentially capable of, notwithstanding those two mammoth challenges before us, perhaps it is fitting for power in its truest form to end up once again, in the hearts of an ordinary majority.

At a time when the symbolism and relevance of Parliament as the sovereign protector of democracy, is being questioned, I couldn’t help but to be reminded of the “people’s power movement” which intensified on Black Tuesday in 1965. Having fought the battle on a constitutional level, having appealed to Great Britain and even the United Nations, and although enjoying some successes, for the PLP, the probability balance of attaining Majority Rule, shifted the day the consciousness of collective power was awakened in our people, the ordinary majority. “The symbol of power in this place is the [Speaker’s] Mace,” Pindling purportedly proclaimed. He went on to say, “Power belongs to the people, and the people are outside.” Needless to say, the Mace was hurled through the window, ended up outside with the people, and the rest as they say, is history.

Forty-one men and women represent us in the Honorable House of Assembly, some of them unfortunately, are not allowed to think for themselves, especially the holder of the Mace, while some of them have fallen into the trappings associated with Black leadership. With the exception of the hand-full who sit in the Upper Chamber, the rest of us are outside. The power to overcome our hurdles and secure a bright future it appears, is still outside of Parliament It is with us, within all of us, that is, if we can find the will and cooperation to achieve it.

Agreeing to Disagree

I am certain, that any day now, some political or journalistic personality will finally announce that Rome was indeed built in one day and further, it was built by one man, the Rt. Hon Hubert Ingraham. This news shall in turn comfort all of my fears and concerns regarding the future of our Country. We will all be able to rest comfortably being led by this larger than life, immortal “fire god” whom, at his earliest convenience will provide the remedy for crime and all of our other social ills; he will inspire our youth to play a greater role in the advancement of an instantly developed Island nation with a burgeoning economy; Long Island, Exuma, Cat Island and San Salvador would have rebounded from the effects of TS turned Hurricane Noel; while the leaders of the World, including Musharraff of Pakistan, will come from far and wide bearing expensive gifts for counsel from our esteemed Prime Minister, that is if Speaker of the House, the Honorable Alvin Smith, would allow.

It is important for me to be silly at this very important moment in our development as a Nation, as a people, if only to prove that a senior journalist and a budding political pundit can publicly disagree on any given subject matter and still remain civil. Like that famed, American comedian Red Skelton once said, "I live by this credo: Have a little laugh at life and look around you for happiness instead of sadness. Laughter has always brought me out of unhappy situations. Even in your darkest moment, you usually can find something to laugh about if you try hard enough." Certainly there is great sadness but also great humor in the attempts by some to mislead the public on the facts surrounding the negotiations of the sale of the Royal Oasis, just as the attempts to mislead us with respect to the preliminary groundwork performed by the former administration on the Economic Partnership Agreement with the European Union negotiations.

At a time when democracy and civility are being violently threatened in the honorable Halls of Parliament, when a life has been tragically lost to the fury of mother-nature, and thousands will find it difficult to sing about the “the first noel” as Christmas will find them worried about how to rebuild their lives and their homes post Hurricane Noel, more of us must cling to the tenets of joy and peace. This is a time of the testing of our humanity and our commitment to the Christian faith. The naked, the thirsty, the hungry, the homeless in our Southern Islands, need us to respond, urgently. Our leaders are all being faced with the great challenge of learning to “speak the truth in love” and when necessary, “turn the other cheek.” And every solution to our social ills lay in the ability of all of us to once again love our neighbors as we love self.

The reality is that Rome was not built in a day. And, the reality is that the responsibility of building a great Bahamas is not in the hands of one or even a few. This Country’s successful future is dependent upon us finding the unity, the togetherness to move forward. This togetherness begins with the acceptance that there are times more often than not, when some will disagree. But we must all now commit to agreeing to disagree, peacefully.

Slow but True!

On whatever side of the political divide one may sit or if even on the fence, one has to admit that the news and pending certainty about the details of the sale of the Royal Oasis is good news. It is yet another achievement time and chance have allowed this Free National Movement administration to take credit for. And yet another reminder to former Prime Minister Perry Christie who worked and worked, stroke recovery and all, to secure the long term economic success of Grand Bahama, that no matter one’s efforts, there is nothing “sure” when it comes to Bahamian politics. I can share with you that Grand Bahama’s future grew near and dear to the heart of the former Prime Minister, who had walked its streets after every ravaging storm, and in each step dreamt a more spectacular quality of life for the people of this Island. The Ginn development in West End, a revitalized Freeport City with a renovated Royal Oasis, and an upscale development near Barbary Beach, was in his mind to become the perfect complement to the shipping and industrial potential of Grand Bahama.

But true progress it is said, is a slow process and Bahamians it seems, these days, lack patience. Five out of six constituencies rejected the Progressive Liberal Party in the May 2, 2007 General Elections. While core FNM supporters remained FNM, and the swing vote went to the highest bidder, many voters had just become apathetic and disillusioned. The people of Grand Bahama, some of whom had seen waves from the sea rise over some twenty feet, could no longer be inspired by promises, they needed action and if not action, at least a workable plan.

Regrettably, the FNM’s Public Relations machinery and big money over shadowed Christie’s dreams, at least for the moment. And, with this the much needed balance of social harmony through restorative programs with economic advancement through spin-off opportunities has been placed on hold for the benefit of the likes of the Hon. Brent Symonette and his kind, who are speedily taking advantage of the big business already being generated through Christie’s “anchor project” scheme. True to form, the Bay Street Boys or the former UBP’s evolved with time and continue to secure their wealth through entrepreneurial endeavors such as real estate, shipping, trade, construction, and banking, to name a few. The DPM himself is said to have interest in companies including, Bahamas Hot Mix, Bahamas Fast Ferries and Commonwealth Bank – three on a long list.

This is no less than what the Progressive Liberal Party intended for more Bahamians – that even if we have not reached that stage where we own large scale developments and hotels, certainly more of us could enjoy the entrepreneurial benefits like the Bay Street Boys. More of us were to go from merely having jobs, being employees, to owning our own businesses and becoming employers. While it is indeed wonderful news about the Royal Oasis, the time has come for us to want more and to develop the patience and patriotism needed to bring these kinds of dreams into fruition. Because, true progress is indeed, a slow process.